I am a resident of the Village of North Branch, Michigan, and I truly believe that allowing village residents to keep backyard hens and ducks could bring remarkable benefits to our community. Fresh eggs are just one of the appealing perks, but there's more to it than that.

This year, ticks have been a significant concern for many of us, presenting potential health risks for both people and pets. Scientific studies point out that a few hens and ducks can dramatically reduce tick populations. In fact, possessing just three hens or two ducks is estimated to consume hundreds of ticks per hour! This natural solution could significantly alleviate the tick problem while promoting a sustainable lifestyle within our village.

Beyond the practicality of fresh eggs and pest control, backyard hens contribute positively to family dynamics, educational opportunities, and environmental stewardship. Children can learn invaluable lessons in responsibility, biology, and nurturing life, right at home. Chickens and ducks also create excellent compost, turning kitchen waste into rich fertilizer for gardens, thus enhancing our green spaces and supporting local food production efforts.

Other communities, both in Michigan and across the country, have successfully integrated backyard hens into their villages, leading to happier, more self-sufficient residents. These precedents showcase that with appropriate regulations and guidelines in place, we can safely and beneficially expand our own village's policy.

Through carefully crafted ordinances, we can ensure the well-being of both residents, ducks and chickens. This includes clear guidelines on the number of hens, coop standards to ensure cleanliness and health, and noise regulations to maintain neighborhood harmony, and to keep neighborhood aesthetics proper and lively, to allow proper cleanliness and care to our neighborhoods. Any violations made by residents can be fined or have the poultry removed from their property.

Incorporating backyard hens into North Branch aligns with our village's values of community, sustainability, and healthy living. Let's come together to make this positive change a reality.

Please sign this petition to show your support for allowing backyard hens in our beloved village of North Branch, Michigan. Together, let's build a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.